KUWAIT CITY, May 13: Dr. Abdul Rahman Al-Mutairi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Health, has underscored the pivotal contribution of nursing professionals in elevating the healthcare system to meet comprehensive standards. Speaking on the occasion of International Nurses Day, Al-Mutairi emphasized the necessity of active and positive engagement from qualified nursing staff to enhance healthcare delivery.

In a statement issued during the celebrations, Al-Mutairi highlighted the government's commitment to prioritizing nursing care within the national development agenda. He emphasized the importance of continuous development and adherence to international standards to ensure the provision of integrated nursing care.

"The nursing profession is integral to a robust and high-quality healthcare system that prioritizes patient rights and safety," stated Al-Mutairi. He reiterated the Ministry's dedication to enhancing the performance of nursing personnel through collaboration with leading international universities and the organization of high-level training programs.

Dr. Iman Al-Awadhi, Director of the Nursing Services Department at the Ministry of Health, echoed Al-Mutairi's sentiments, emphasizing the crucial role of nursing staff in shaping the future of healthcare services. Al-Awadhi emphasized the theme of this year's International Nurses Day, "Our nurses... our future, the economic power of care," as a call to invest in continuous training and development for nursing professionals.

Al-Awadhi highlighted Kuwait's significant progress in healthcare development, attributing it to the Ministry's relentless efforts. She noted that Kuwait boasts over 22,000 trained male and female nurses working across hospitals and health centers.

Addressing global concerns about nursing shortages, Al-Awadhi referenced a World Health Organization report projecting a shortfall of approximately 9 million nurses worldwide by 2030. While acknowledging the global shortage, she emphasized Kuwait's need for nursing staff amidst ongoing hospital expansions and the emergence of new healthcare specialties.

To address these needs, the Ministry of Health has launched initiatives aimed at developing nursing staff through specialized training courses and collaborations with renowned institutions such as the Oman College of Health Sciences, Johns Hopkins Hospital, and the University of Beirut. Al-Awadhi affirmed the Ministry's commitment to continuous training and skill development for nurses across various healthcare domains.

In the coming months, the Ministry anticipates hosting additional specialized courses to equip nurses with the necessary skills to meet evolving healthcare demands.